Away from the Ball: The NFL's Off-the-Field Heroes
Alan Ross
It seems like every time you turn on the news, another NFL player is in trouble with the law. What's happening to pro sports? Where have all the good guys gone?
With the media spotlight focused on the thuggish off-the-field exploits of a growing cadre of players, the public rarely hears of the positive accomplishments of today's athletes. We don't hear enough about people like Indianapolis Colts head coach Tony Dungy, whose strong Christian values, belief in personal accountability, and compassion for those less fortunate led him to cofound All Pro Dad, an organization that promotes stronger families. And there's Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Warrick Dunn, whose selfless generosity in Atlanta, Baton Rouge, Tallahassee, and Tampa helps single mothers into their first homes by supplying down-payment assistance and all household furnishings. Both men have rebounded from personal tragedies and work to improve the lives of others. Imagine former New York Giants defensive end George Martin—at age 55—walking across America to raise funds for the families of 9/11 first responders! The lives of these NFL men reflect the respect they have earned by helping others in need. But the efforts don't end there.
Jason Taylor, the Miami Dolphins' six-time Pro Bowler and 2007 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award recipient, Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner, Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker legend Derrick Brooks, the New Orleans Saints' Drew Brees, and Deuce McAllister, Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning, San Diego's LaDainian Tomlinson—all have contributed mightily to their communities with their thoughtful generosity.
 | ALAN ROSS, a freelance writer and former editor for American Profile magazine, Professional Team Publications, and Athlon Sports Communications, has been a regular contributor to Lindy's Pro Football Annual for the past twelve years. He lives in Columbia, Tennessee, with his wife, Caroline. |
$22.95, Hardcover
ISBN-10: 1-58182-654-0 (Hardcover)
ISBN-13: 978-1-58182-654-8 (Hardcover)
Hardcover Available August 2008
